Treat your Feet with Care

They take you wherever you need to go with little or no complaining. So, as you luxuriate in the golden days of summer, don't forget to pay attention to your feet. Here are some tips from the American Podiatric Medical Society for their safe keeping.

It might feel great to walk barefoot, but you should do so as infrequently as possible. Going shoeless exposes feet to sunburn, plantar warts, athlete's foot and ringworm, among other infections, and it increases the risk of injury. Instead, wear open-toed shoes around the pool, beach, in locker rooms and even in hotel rooms, as infection-causing bacteria can linger in carpets and on bathroom tiles.

Apply sunscreen to your entire foot, particularly on the tops and fronts of ankles.

Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help minimize foot swelling caused by the heat.

When traveling, pack an extra pair of shoes, especially if you expect your feet will get wet.

Wear flip-flops that provide arch support and that bend only at the ball of the foot. High-quality soft leather for the thong part of the flip-flop will help avoid blisters. Avoid flip-flops with soles that freely bend and twist and that offer no support or stability.

Toes and heels should never hang off the edge of a flip-flop. Discard flip-flops that are old, cracked or frayed.

Never wear flip-flops for yard work, playing sports or taking long walks.

Are you kind to your feet? Let me know here.

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